Columbia News

Senator Eric Schmitt has recently voiced concerns about U.S. immigration policy and the impact of government shutdowns through a series of posts on X (formerly Twitter).

On October 8, 2025, Schmitt wrote, "It isn't just illegal immigration. There are serious problems with LEGAL immigration, too. Programs like the H-1B visa aren't being used to attract the 'best and brightest.' They're being used to replace American workers with imported foreign labor." The senator’s comments come amid ongoing debates over the future of legal immigration programs such as the H-1B visa system, which is designed to allow U.S. employers to temporarily employ foreign workers in specialty occupations.

Later that day, Schmitt shared an interview link, stating, "You can watch my full interview with @NewFounding here: https://t.co/R0SBm7pTou" on October 8, 2025.

The following day, on October 9, 2025, Schmitt criticized Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer's response to a government shutdown. He posted, "Chuck Schumer says that 'every day gets better' for them during his shutdown. Meanwhile, federal workers & service members are worried about missing a paycheck & families are facing disruptions in services. Shutdown Schumer is celebrating chaos while everyday Americans pay the". This statement reflects partisan tensions surrounding government funding negotiations and their effects on federal employees and public services.

The H-1B visa program has been a subject of debate in recent years as lawmakers discuss potential reforms to ensure it serves its intended purpose—filling critical skill gaps without undercutting American jobs. Government shutdowns have historically led to furloughs for federal workers and disruptions in public services.